Formula 1 has entered a new era of track safety with the introduction of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE as the championship’s latest Official Safety Car. The high-performance hybrid supercar officially replaces the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, which has served as the F1 Safety Car since 2022.
The new Safety Car made its competitive debut at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix, marking an important milestone in Formula 1 history. For the first time ever, an F1 Safety Car features an all-wheel-drive system, powered by Mercedes-AMG’s advanced 4MATIC+ technology.
Designed to operate in some of the most demanding conditions in motorsport, the GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE combines extreme performance, cutting-edge technology, and the reliability required to control the world’s fastest racing cars during safety interventions.
A Hybrid Powerhouse Built for F1 Duty
Under the hood, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE delivers supercar-level performance through a combination of a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine and advanced electric assistance.
The powertrain produces 612 horsepower and up to 850 Nm of torque, providing the instant acceleration needed to quickly build speed and maintain the pace ahead of an F1 grid during Safety Car periods.
The combination of combustion power and electric technology allows the AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE to deliver rapid response, while also improving efficiency and drivability in different track conditions.
Mercedes-AMG engineers have also optimized the vehicle specifically for its Safety Car role. Improvements include enhanced aerodynamic components, upgraded cooling systems, and additional modifications to ensure the car can handle extended periods of high-speed operation without compromising performance.
First F1 Safety Car With All-Wheel Drive
One of the biggest technical highlights of the new Safety Car is its all-wheel-drive system, making it the first official F1 Safety Car equipped with four-wheel traction.
The AMG 4MATIC+ system provides improved stability, especially during challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain or low-grip situations. This allows the Safety Car to maintain control while leading a field of Formula 1 cars traveling at high speeds.
The system is especially important because the Safety Car is not simply a fast road car — it must perform consistently under extreme pressure while ensuring drivers behind it remain safe.
Innovative Safety Features and Aerodynamic Design
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE features several unique modifications developed specifically for Formula 1 duty.
One of the most noticeable changes is the redesigned LED Safety Car light system, which is integrated into the rear wing area. This solution improves visibility for drivers while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
The vehicle also receives additional communication equipment, FIA safety systems, and track-specific adjustments to ensure race control can manage incidents effectively.
Celebrating 30 Years of Mercedes-Benz as F1 Safety Car Supplier
The arrival of the new AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE also celebrates a historic milestone: 30 years of Mercedes-Benz serving as the official Safety Car supplier for Formula 1.
To commemorate the anniversary, the vehicle features a special livery inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s long-standing involvement in Formula 1 safety operations.
Since 1996, Mercedes-Benz has provided some of the most iconic Safety Cars in F1 history, including models from the SL, CLK, SLS AMG, AMG GT, and GT Black Series generations.
Bernd Mayländer Continues as the Man Behind the Wheel
Although the Safety Car has changed, the person responsible for controlling it remains familiar to Formula 1 fans.
Experienced FIA Safety Car driver Bernd Mayländer continues his role behind the wheel. The German driver has been managing Safety Car duties in Formula 1 for more than two decades and remains one of the most recognizable figures during race interruptions.
With his experience and the capabilities of the new AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE, Formula 1 now has one of the most advanced Safety Cars ever created.
A New Standard for Formula 1 Safety
The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE represents more than just a new Safety Car. It showcases how road car technology continues to evolve through motorsport demands.
With hybrid power, all-wheel-drive capability, advanced aerodynamics, and decades of Mercedes-Benz safety expertise, the new F1 Safety Car is ready to face the toughest challenges on the world’s most demanding circuits.
As Formula 1 continues to push the limits of speed and technology, the AMG GT 63 S E PERFORMANCE will play a crucial role in protecting drivers and maintaining safety at the highest level of motorsport.
